Crew Capability Assessment in Using Portable Fire Extinguisher during Fire Drill Implementation on MV. Vinca

Abstract

Years ago, a fire extinguisher was invented as an active fire protection device used to extinguish or control fires in emergencies. On board, fire extinguisher plays an important role to prevent and overcome any danger or threat resulted from a fire. Thus, crew’s capability in using the fire extinguishers is highly needed. In this case, crews are supposed to be trained in using the fire extinguisher by implementing a fire drill (at least once a month). However, in fact, in this research, it was found that most of MV. Vinca’s crews were not aware of fire-fighting procedure especially on how to use the portable fire extinguisher. This phenomenon was the reason why this research was conducted focusing on the crew’s low capability in using portable fire extinguishers during the fire drill implementation. The data were collected through observation, structured interviews, documentary studies, and library research. The data were then analyzed by using Fault Tree Analysis (FTA) and Urgency, Seriousness, Growth (USG). Based on the analysis, it was found that the crews had a low capability in using a portable fire extinguisher. There were some reasons: (1) They lacked the knowledge and understanding about portable fire extinguisher; (2) The fire drills were not seriously carried out; (3) The portable fire extinguishers were in bad condition due to the absence of periodic and regular maintenance. In order to overcome the problem, training and guidance for the crews about the various types of portable fire extinguisher and their uses are highly needed; fire drills need to be performed seriously. Moreover, regular maintenance to the fire-fighting equipment also needs to be carried out.